Research has shown that a father’s involvement in the academic lives of their children will last beyond their childhood; in fact their influence will expand well into the child’s early adult lives (Rosenberg & Bradford, 2006). The benefits of an involved father or significant male role model are not limited to the homes of children’s where the fathers live. Studies have indicated children with fathers living outside the home but who remain involved benefit from having an engaged father. According to Fogarty and Evans (n.d.) children in homes with absent as defined in their study as nonresidential fathers, but who nevertheless engaged fathers benefit in a variety of ways: (1) stronger relationship with their dads as they enter adulthood; (2) better social skills in many cases than children whose nonresidential father is not engaged; (3) less behavioral problems; and (4) better grades. These are just a few of the benefits to having an engaged father who may not live in the home with the child.

In 2009, The National Center for Fathering's Gallup Poll found 92.0% of Americans who responded to their study regarding fathering agreed that fathers make a unique contribution to their children’s lives. However, the study revealed a gap in the expected role of fathers in the lives of children. One finding in particular disclosed that only 50% of the respondents believed fathers know what is going on in their children lives. While this is an increase of 6% (44%) in 1999, the fact remains that half of those surveyed see fathers as somewhat unaware. Additionally, the study outlined that 97% of the survey participants suggest that fathers need to do more to be involved in the education of their children. Herein is the purpose of the National Men Make A Difference Day for Academic Success.